Compromise Is Reached Over Riverwalk Fencing

Naperville — Residents and officials are welcoming a revised plan for the fencing along the recently opened extension of the city's Riverwalk.

"It's a great compromise situation, and I applaud everyone's effort," said City Council member James Siddall.

A fence along the extension leading to Jefferson Avenue had been aimed at reducing traffic hazards to pedestrians who use the path. But it also prevents Riverwalk users from accessing Jefferson and vice versa.

Under a new plan presented to the City Council this week, a portion of the fence would be opened to allow access from the Riverwalk to the sidewalk along Jefferson. A section of wrought-iron fence to be erected on the parkway opposite the new opening would provide a barrier to the street itself.

A new sign also would be put up at the wrought-iron fence, warning of the dangerous road and urging pedestrians to use a crosswalk a half-block to the east. The plan also calls for a bicycle and skateboard prohibition on the Riverwalk, `No Parking' signs east of the Jefferson bridge and an assurance from the city that a pedestrian walkway under the Jefferson bridge will be built when the bridge eventually is rebuilt.